Bierkeller, a traditional German-style brewing project in Columbia, will hold its inaugural beer release event in May in conjunction with the launch of a fundraising campaign.

The project is the brainchild of Scott Burgess, a Columbia-based brewer who gained a love and appreciation for German beers and the traditional style of brewing during the years he lived in Germany. His beers have gained a wealth of respect in Columbia’s homebrewing circles, and Burgess was recently able to upscale his production thanks to a deal with Swamp Cabbage Brewing Co.

The first official Bierkeller release will be held at the brewery on Saturday, May 14, for Kölumbianer, a 4.8% Kölsch-style ale. The beer will be served in traditional .25 liter Stange glasses for just $2 (and a small additional fee if you want to keep the glass). The Wurst Wagon food truck will also be on hand, natch.

Additionally, the release will act as the launch of Bierkeller’s crowdfunding campaign. There are no immediate plans for a standalone brewery, but the funding will go to purchase equipment, merch and other necessities.

Following the launch, Bierkeller will be holding pop-up beer gardens across the Columbia area this summer. The events will emulate the feel of a traditional German beer garden complete with beer, food, music and more. Details on the first pop-up event are forthcoming.